Should I apply test optional to college if my SAT or ACT score is below the school's average?

Usually, yes: if your SAT or ACT is clearly below a school’s middle 50% range, applying test optional often makes sense, especially if your GPA, course rigor, writing, and activities are stronger.

A score below the school’s typical range can make it harder for the testing section to help you. If the rest of your application already shows strong academic ability, leaving the score out may let admissions focus more on the parts where you shine.

That said, “below average” does not automatically mean “don’t send.” If your score is close to the 25th percentile, it may still be worth submitting. If it’s well below the 25th percentile, test optional is usually the better move.

Also check whether your score helps in a specific section. For example, a strong math score could still be useful for engineering or STEM at some colleges, even if the overall composite is lower than the school’s median. On the other hand, if your score is noticeably weaker than your transcript suggests, it can raise questions rather than help.

Make sure to look at each college separately. A score that is weak for one school may be solid for another, so your decision does not have to be the same everywhere.